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Zoar Village - Ohio Historical Society Walking Tours

Midwest Living Review

Guided tours offer a glimpse into the history of Zoar's time as a commune of German religious separatists.

During warm-weather months, costumed guides lead tours of ten restored, historical buildings in Zoar Village. The tours are a good way to learn more about this former communal society, formed in 1817 by German religious separatists. Visitors start out by viewing an orientation video at the Zoar Store, which sells gift shop items like old-fashioned wooden toys, maple candy, soap and books. Other buildings include a dairy and wagon, blacksmith and tin shops furnished with items used by the separatists. Volunteers at the restored bakery sell American-ized bread baked in a wood-fired hearth oven. The buildings are owned by the Ohio Historical Society, and are managed with help from the Zoar Community Association. Other buildings in the village include private homes, shops and bed & breakfasts. During special events, volunteers provide craft demonstrations.